Excalidraw, Collaborative tool to draw and sketch Collaborative tool to draw and sketch
Digital whiteboards
Description: Excalidraw is a tool for creating diagrams and sketches to visually communicate ideas. It operates through a simple web-based interface where users can draw shapes, lines, and text to create diagrams. It supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple users to work together on the same canvas simultaneously. Excalidraw was developed by Vjeux (Christopher Chedeau) and a team of contributors. Excalidraw is free and open-source, available on GitHub. Using Excalidraw does not require signing up or having an account. Users can access the tool directly through their web browser without any registration process.
Evaluation: Excalidraw is a great tool to use in class as a virtual whiteboard. With its different functionalities, it can be used by anyone needing to create visual representations of ideas, concepts, or processes. It serves various purposes such as brainstorming, prototyping, or simply sketching. It does not specifically focus on linguistic skills but rather on visual communication. Its interface is intuitive and easy-to-use. It requires average IT skills.
Cost: Free without registration + premium versions available
Type Of Interaction:
Group/pair work - classmates,
Content:
Website/other users supply,
You supply,
Usability and tech notes ▼
Time efficiency 
Time needed to learn how to use a tool and its time-saving potential: High
Interface language(s) The number of languages in which the tool is currently available/adaptable to: Dozens of languages, among which Norwegian, Occitan, Swedish, Kabylian, Arabic, Punjabi, or Indonesian.
Respect for privacy What data does the tool collect and why? What security measures are there? GDPR compliant? : Medium. Excalidraw collects personal data and shares it with third parties, including for purposes of advertising. However, users can opt out of targeted advertising cookies. Excalidraw’s privacy policy mentions consent as the basis for operating user data. It also mentions security measures. Excalidraw does not explicitly state compliance with the GDPR but yes with EU’s privacy laws. See more here.
Saving work for future use Can work be saved for future use?: Yes. Data can be saved and exported in different formats.
Any other relevant information:
- Installation required?: No
- Compatibility/ Operating System: All operating systems